Can You Keep Possums as Pets?

Possums are often seen as pests or unwanted guests, but can they make good pets? In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of keeping possums as pets and provide some tips on how to care for them.

Are Possums Good Pets?

The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including your lifestyle, personality, and expectations. Possums can be friendly and affectionate pets, but they also require a lot of care and attention. If you're prepared to put in the time and effort, then a possum could be a good pet for you.

Pros of Keeping a Possum as a Pet

There are several advantages to keeping a possum as a pet:

• They are unique and interesting animals. Possums have a number of unique features, such as their long tails, prehensile feet, and ability to play dead. They're also very intelligent and can be trained to do tricks.
• They are relatively low-maintenance pets. Possums don't require much space or exercise, and they can be fed a variety of foods. They also don't need to be bathed or groomed regularly.
• They can be affectionate and loving pets. Possums are social animals and they can form strong bonds with their human caregivers. They love to be petted and held, and they will often show their affection by licking or nibbling on your fingers.

Cons of Keeping a Possum as a Pet

There are also some drawbacks to keeping a possum as a pet:

• They can be destructive. Possums are curious and playful animals, and they can get into trouble if they're not properly supervised. They may chew on furniture, wires, or other household items. They also have sharp claws that can scratch you or your belongings.
• They can be noisy. Possums are vocal animals and they can make a variety of noises, including hissing, growling, and chattering. This can be annoying to some people, especially if you live in an apartment or condo.
• They can carry diseases. Possums can carry a variety of diseases, including salmonella, tularemia, and leptospirosis. It's important to take precautions to prevent yourself from being exposed to these diseases, such as wearing gloves when handling your possum and washing your hands thoroughly after touching it.

How to Care for a Pet Possum

If you decide to get a pet possum, there are a few things you need to do to make sure it's well cared for:

• Provide a safe and secure home. Your possum needs a place to live that is free from drafts and predators. The enclosure should be large enough for your possum to move around comfortably, and it should have a variety of hiding places.
• Feed your possum a healthy diet. Possums are omnivores and they can eat a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, insects, and small animals. It's important to provide your possum with a balanced diet that includes all the nutrients it needs.
• Give your possum plenty of attention. Possums are social animals and they need interaction with their human caregivers. Make sure to spend time with your possum each day, playing with it or just petting it. This will help your possum to feel loved and secure.
• Take your possum to the vet regularly. Your possum should see a veterinarian at least once a year for a checkup. This will help to ensure that your possum is healthy and that it's up-to-date on its vaccinations.